Plymouth mourns unexpected death of former police chief

The City of Plymouth is mourning the unexpected death of its former police chief and public safety director Mike Goldstein.

The city announced that it had been informed of Goldstein’s death, which was the result of a “medical incident” on Tuesday.

KARE 11 is reporting that Goldstein was on vacation in Italy with his wife when he died.

He had a storied career in law enforcement, officially retiring in January 2021 after a career that spanned more than three decades, and was praised for his efforts to increase mental health treatment and access for serving officers.

“We are heartbroken with the news of Mike’s passing,” said current Public Safety Director/Police Chief Erik Fadden, who served with Goldstein for 16 years. “Mike leaves behind a lasting and unmatched legacy. He inspired everyone who met him – a true servant leader whose contributions to public safety will be felt for years to come.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Goldstein family,” Fadden added. “He was one in a million.”

Goldstein, who was raised in Plymouth, joined the city’s Police Explorers as a high schooler in 1984 and became one of the first members of the Plymouth Police Reserves.

He became a full-time sworn officer in 1990, rising to sergeant in 1994, lieutenant in 2001, captain in 2003, and police chief in 2004. When the city’s police and fire departments merged in 2015, he was named the city’s first public safety director.

Flags have been lowered to half-mast in honor of Goldstein in Plymouth.

Among those paying tribute is celebrated retired Twin Cities TV anchor Randy Shaver, who coached football with Goldstein.